Slayer have been winning over new generations of thrash metallers for 25+ years, inherently inking them as one of the top iconic symbols of modern heavy metal. Returning with a vengeance Slayer have announced World Painted Blood as the title of their forthcoming album, slated for a late summer release. Helmed by Greg Fidelman and executive produced by long-time friend/guiding force Rick Rubin, the new album boasts a return to 80′s form and embraces the fruits of new-school production technique, as heard on the breakout track released last November, “Psychopathy Red.” Slayer are also hitting US Interstates this July with shock-rocker Marilyn Mason as co-headliners of the Rockstar Mayhem tour, which in the absence of Ozzfest will serve as the premiere heavy metal/rock package tour of the summer. Legions of tweeners will get the chance to head-bang with former generations of Slayer die-hards, only this time wearing a signature pair of Slayer Vans. Duh.

—Zeena Koda